In a recent turn of events, former Miss Universe Organization (MUO) president Paula Shugart has received staunch support from several prominent beauty queens, including Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray, amidst ongoing controversies involving the organization’s current owner, Thai business magnate Anne Jakrajutatip.
On Monday, Feb. 19, Shugart took to Instagram to address serious allegations made by Jakrajutatip, which included claims suggesting Shugart had engaged in illicit activities such as accepting bribes to influence the outcome of the prestigious beauty pageant. Strongly refuting these accusations, Shugart issued a statement threatening legal action against Jakrajutatip.
Among those demonstrating their solidarity with Shugart by liking her Instagram post were Wurtzbach and Gray, alongside reigning Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee and Miss Universe Thailand 2023 Anntonia Porsild. Despite their supportive gestures, these personalities have refrained from making public statements regarding the matter.
In addition to Wurtzbach and Gray, numerous former Miss Universe titleholders also stepped forward to voice their unwavering support for Shugart across various social media platforms. Miss Universe 1997 Brook Lee expressed her disappointment over the allegations, emphasizing Shugart’s history of supportive leadership and her commitment to ensuring fairness and inclusivity within the organization.
Similarly, former Miss Universe winners Lupita Jones, Ximena Navarrete, and Iris Mittenaere took to the comments section of Shugart’s post to defend her integrity and commend her dedication to upholding the values of the Miss Universe pageant.
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Former Miss USA titleholders Olivia Jordan and Nia Sanchez also extended their gratitude to Shugart for her exemplary leadership during their respective tenures. Expressing their dismay over attempts to tarnish Shugart’s legacy, they praised her decision to speak out in defense of her reputation and that of other titleholders.
Shugart’s tenure as president of the MUO spanned over two decades before she announced her retirement from the position in November 2023. Her decision to step down coincided with Jakrajutatip’s acquisition of the organization, marking a significant transition in the Miss Universe landscape.
